Granite Vs Quartz Countertops Debate

The granite vs quartz countertops dilemma will always arise when you are planning to redecorate your home, especially the kitchen. It is not usually an easy conclusion to arrive at if you are not well informed about both types of countertops. This dilemma can best be tackled by a discussion of the key features of each type of countertop and how each fits your needs and budget. Like everything else in life, both types of countertops have their advantages and disadvantages but on the other hand different people have different preferences. Your decision to buy a granite or quartz countertop will largely depend on your preference and the basic features each type of countertop has. A good starting point would be to consider each type independently before making comparisons.

Key Features That Make Them Popular

Granite is a naturally occurring strong and dense material. It is extracted from earth in large blocks but later broken down into sizeable slabs. The slabs are later treated to a fine polish using a polyurethane sealer or a resin that leaves the granite slabs waterproof. Some of the features that make it attractive to many homeowners include:

•They are waterproof.

•They become permanent features after installation.

•They give your kitchen a stylishly cozy ambiance.

•Enhance the beauty of your kitchen.

•Status symbols from their rich luminous surface.
•Different types to choose from with prices ranging from $4 per square foot for granite tiles, $25 per square foot for modular granite to around $60 per square foot for slab granite. Prefabricate granite types are more common than black variety because they are more affordable and easy to install.

•Have a higher resale value than quartz especially when you are selling your home.

There are however a few disadvantages of granite countertops which include:

•Granite countertops are susceptible to growth of bacteria and can cause contamination. This problem can however be solved by constantly cleaning the granite countertop with warm water and detergent.

•They are not as hard or crack-resistant as quartz countertops. In fact they are half as hard and therefore half as durable as quartz countertops.

•More costly to install than quartz due the tedious work involved in installation. They require additional supporting structures when installing.

•They are permanent which means removing them later damages other structures attached they are attached to.

Features Of Quartz Countertops

Quartz is a natural element that is available in large quantities on earth. It is very hard and almost scratch-free especially in its crude form. It is ranked 7th on the Mohs’ Hardness scale which measures scratch-resistance properties of naturally occurring minerals. In fact the only minerals that actually beat quartz in terms of scratch-resistance are diamond, sapphire, and of course topaz. Quartz countertops are made of 93 percent quartz which ranks them among the hardest and most durable countertops available in the market today.

A few of the major features of quartz countertops include the following:

•Extremely hard and durable.

•Available in a variety of colors, styles, and even patterns. They have a uniform color unlike granite countertops.

•Have smooth beveled edges which makes them child friendly.

•Require less maintenance than granite countertops. Cleaning and removal of stains is easy and hassle-free.

•They are less porous than granite countertops. Food and liquids can not stick on their surfaces.

•No need of sealing which makes installation easier and much cheaper than granite.

The major disadvantage of quartz countertops is the fact that joints of the countertop are quite visible which mars the overall appearance. Joints in granite countertops are invisible after installation. Secondly installation of quartz countertops will take you back by more than $60 per square foot depending on the company doing the installation. Some companies charge as high as $100 per square foot. So if you need to install quartz on your 30 foot kitchen counter expect to part with no less than $1800.

The Verdict Granite vs Quartz Countertops

From what has been discussed above, quartz countertops provide a greater range of features and advantages than granite countertops. They are less porous and less vulnerable to staining and contamination due to growth of bacteria than granite countertops. Quartz countertops also come in uniform color surfaces which is one thing you will not have in granite countertops. However, as with everything in the market where quality is directly linked to cost, installing quartz countertops comes at a higher price.

Personal preference will also play a major role in your decision though. If your intention is to add value to your kitchen furniture, granite countertops will be the ideal choice. Once you have made your choice between granite vs quartz countertops, it will be important to have it professionally installed. The overall beauty and durability of each type of countertop however depends on how much care and maintenance you give to your countertop.